Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms: Early Signs, Triggers & Recovery Tips

Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms & Prevention: What to Watch For During Allergy Season

Allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever, occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne particles known as allergens. These allergens enter the body through the nose or mouth, prompting the release of a chemical called histamine. This reaction leads to symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion or a runny nose, itchy eyes, and tiredness.

Although hay fever is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact daily comfort and overall quality of life. This condition is common and can occur at certain times of the year or year-round, depending on your triggers. Although you can’t completely prevent hay fever, there are ways to manage it and reduce how often symptoms appear.

In this article, we’ll explain allergic rhinitis symptoms, its causes, diagnosis, treatment, how to differentiate it from a common cold and other crucial aspects.   

What are the Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?

Hay fever symptoms can show up at any time, but outdoor allergies are usually worse from spring through early autumn, especially when plants are blooming. Indoor allergies may get worse in winter, when people stay inside more.

Symptoms include:

• Stuffy or runny nose and sneezing
• Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
• Red or watery eyes
• Headaches or pressure in your sinuses
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Feeling tired
• Sore throat from mucus dripping down your throat (called postnasal drip)
• Coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing

What Causes Allergic Rhinitis?

Hay fever happens when your immune system overreacts to tiny particles in the air, called allergens. These can get into your body through your nose or mouth when you breathe.

Common causes of hay fever include:

• Dust mites found in carpets, curtains, and bedding
• Pollen from grass, trees, and weeds
• Pet dander (tiny bits of skin from animals)
• Mold spores
• Cockroach saliva and droppings
• Food allergies may cause symptoms like throat swelling or itching, but they are not a direct cause of allergic rhinitis. Consult a doctor if food triggers symptoms resembling rhinitis.

How is Allergic Rhinitis Diagnosed?

To determine whether you have hay fever, a doctor will review your symptoms and rule out other conditions such as a cold or asthma. Allergy testing may be recommended to identify the specific trigger. One commonly used method is a blood test known as the IgE test.

Another option your doctor might suggest is skin testing, such as:

• Skin Prick Test: Small amounts of allergens are placed on your skin, usually on your arm or back. Then, your skin is lightly scratched or pricked. If you’re allergic, the area becomes red or itchy within 15–30 minutes.
• Intradermal Test: A small amount of allergen is injected under your skin. If you're allergic, your skin will react similarly to the skin prick test.

How is Allergic Rhinitis Treated?

Doctors may use the following treatments to manage hay fever and reduce symptoms:

1. Antihistamines

These medicines block histamine, the chemical your body makes during an allergic reaction. They help with sneezing, itching, and runny noses. Antihistamines come as pills, liquids, sprays, and drops. Some common types include:

• Loratadine
• Cetirizine
• Fexofenadine
• Levocetirizine
   

2. Decongestants

These relieve stuffy nose and sinus pressure. You can take them as pills, liquids, or nasal sprays. Examples include:

• Nasal spray
• Phenylephrine
• Pseudoephedrine
   

3. Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays

These sprays reduce swelling and help with many hay fever symptoms. Side effects can include headaches, nose irritation, nosebleeds, and coughing.

4. Leukotriene Inhibitors

These pills block another allergy-causing chemical called leukotriene. They are available by prescription only. A common one is:

• Montelukast
   

5. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Pills)

This long-term treatment helps your body get used to allergens. You get regular shots with small amounts of allergens. Over time, your immune system reacts less and less.

How Can Allergic Rhinitis be Prevented?

There’s no way to fully prevent allergic rhinitis, but you can take steps to reduce your symptoms and avoid triggers. Some helpful tips include:

• Try not to touch your face or rub your eyes and nose.
• Keep windows closed in your home and car during allergy seasons (spring, summer, and early autumn).
• Use dust mite-proof covers on your pillows, mattress, and box spring.
• Don’t let pets sleep on beds or couches, and keep them out of certain rooms like bedrooms.
• Use air filters in your vacuum and air conditioner to help trap allergens.
• Wash your hands often, especially after handling pets.
• When outdoors, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen. Change clothes when you get inside to avoid spreading pollen around your home.

How to Differentiate Allergic Rhinitis from a Common Cold?

The symptoms of hay fever and the common cold can feel the same, but there are key differences:

What Complications Can Allergic Rhinitis Cause?

If hay fever isn’t managed well, it can lead to other issues, like:

• Lower Quality of Life: Symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion can make it hard to enjoy daily activities or focus at work or school.
• Poor Sleep: Stuffy nose and other symptoms can make it hard to sleep well, which can leave you tired and feeling unwell.
• Worsening Asthma: If you have asthma, hay fever can make it worse, causing more coughing or breathing trouble.
• Sinus Infections (Sinusitis): Long-term nasal congestion can raise the risk of sinus infections.
• Ear Infections in Kids: In children, hay fever can lead to middle ear infections (called otitis media).

Understanding seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms can help you take control of your allergies and improve your day-to-day comfort. With the right care and lifestyle adjustments, most people can manage hay fever effectively and reduce the impact it has on their life, sleep, and overall well-being.